A File Photo of a Waste-to-Energy Plant in Bidadi
In Bidadi, Karnataka, the waste-to-energy plant operated by the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) has been making headlines. Until the end of April, a whopping 10,621 tonnes of ash have been produced at this innovative WtE facility. The KPCL has some interesting plans for this ash, aiming to sell it to cement factories to generate extra revenue. Among the ash, 9,214 tonnes are categorized as bottom ash while 1,407 tonnes are considered fly ash, released into the atmosphere post-treatment. The big question now is whether this ash can be used by cement factories just like the ash generated in coal plants. Tests are underway to determine if the ash from the WtE plant meets the quality standards required for construction materials.
Quality Testing by IISc
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is currently analyzing a sample of ash from the plant to see if it matches up to the quality of coal ash. Satish Kumar H., executive engineer at KPCL, mentioned, “If the quality is equivalent to that of coal ash, then it can be used by cement factories.” This testing process is crucial to determine the potential uses of the ash from the WtE plant. Residents and environmentalists have expressed concerns about the hazardous nature of the ash, particularly the fly ash. However, Mr. Kumar assured that all hazardous gases are neutralized during the treatment process at the plant. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has also confirmed that the ash is not hazardous after conducting thorough checks.
Logistical Challenges Ahead
Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department and managing director of KPCL, highlighted the logistical challenges associated with transporting the ash to cement factories. With no cement factories located in the southern parts of the state, the transportation costs could be substantial. Mr. Gupta mentioned, “We are exploring options to transport the ash without incurring significant financial strain.” For now, the bottom ash is being disposed of in landfills by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) in collaboration with the plant. Overall, the future of the ash from the WtE plant in Bidadi remains uncertain, with testing and logistical hurdles to overcome.
